For the second year in a row, Innisfil resident Bennie Dunsmoor has decked out his Gilford property in spooky, haunted Halloween decor for a thrill-seeking experience, all for a good cause.
InnisfilToday had the opportunity to check out the barn on the opening night earlier this week and speak with Dunsmoor and his family about their spooktacular community initiative.
The family loves Halloween and started the tour last year when trick-or-treating and holiday attractions were "cancelled" due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He and his whole family got involved in the project, decorating their property in a haunted Halloween theme, and offering public tours.
This year the family started working on decorating the multi-level barn in August, in order to be ready for tours in October. Last year the tour saw 150 people come through the property, they expect even more this year.
Upon entering the property, you will see a decked-out "cemetery", with tombstones for "Yul B Next" "Barry D Hatchett" and more.
Each room is decorated in a different theme, from a haunted nursery to a creepy hospital ward, with eerie "actors" lurking in the shadows ready to pop out at any moment for a scare.
The actors are all family members and friends dressed up in costume for an added element of fun.
Before going through the barn, each registered group can select their preferred level of "scariness" they want to experience. For younger children, animations are turned off and lights turned on.
The cost of the tour is $2 per person, with half the proceeds going toward a local charity.
"The other half is to pay the hydro," they laughed.
They have yet to decide which one to give the proceeds to this year. The Dunsmoor family is also collecting items on site for the Innisfil Food Bank.
The tours take place every night from 7:30 p.m.to 10:30 p.m. up until Halloween.
Pre-registration is encouraged online here, but walk-ins are also welcome.
Upon entry, waivers must be filled out and masks are mandatory when walking through the barn.
